New Yorkers facing RICO charges turn to The Fast Law Firm because they want a strategic defense built on former prosecution experience and proven federal trial results. We deliver clear guidance, focused advocacy, and defense strategies rooted in decades of high-stakes criminal litigation.
Why Choose Us?
- 5-star client satisfaction
- Former Brooklyn Felony Assistant District Attorney
- Led over 25 federal and state trials to verdict as lead counsel
- Deep experience defending major federal crimes
- Thorough case analysis and personalized defense planning
Understanding RICO Laws
RICO laws target individuals or groups accused of conducting illegal business activities through an enterprise. Federal RICO rules operate alongside New York’s enterprise corruption statute, which expands the reach of prosecutors in state court. To prove a RICO violation, the government must establish a pattern of racketeering, a connection to an enterprise, and actions that further illegal goals.
What Qualifies as Racketeering Activity?
Racketeering activity includes crimes such as bribery, extortion, drug trafficking, securities fraud, and money laundering. Prosecutors must prove at least two qualifying acts within ten years to show a pattern. The challenge often lies in connecting separate acts to a coordinated criminal enterprise.
We evaluate these allegations with precision and work to challenge each element that the prosecution must prove.
Key Elements of Federal RICO Charges
Federal RICO charges require proof of multiple components. Understanding these elements early is critical to building a strong defense.
What Must Prosecutors Prove in a RICO Case?
Prosecutors must show a pattern of racketeering activity, involvement in an enterprise, systematic illegal conduct, and a direct connection between the alleged acts and the enterprise. Each element must be supported by reliable evidence, which creates multiple opportunities for defense challenges.
- Pattern of racketeering activity: At least two qualifying crimes within ten years.
- Association with an enterprise: The accused must be connected to a group affecting interstate or foreign commerce.
- Systematic activity: The conduct must show continuity or repeated criminal behavior, not isolated incidents.
- Link to the enterprise: Prosecutors must show that the actions furthered the enterprise’s goals.
- Diverse types of enterprises: These may include organized crime networks, corporate entities, or fraudulent business operations.
How Do Defense Attorneys Challenge Rico Allegations?
Defense attorneys evaluate whether the alleged acts form a true pattern, whether intent is supported by evidence, whether an enterprise existed, and whether authorities followed proper legal procedures. Each point of attack can weaken the government’s case. Common RICO defense strategies include:
- Challenging the pattern of activity: Examining whether the alleged acts are unrelated or too far apart in time.
- Disputing intent: Showing that the accused lacked intent to participate in criminal conduct.
- Breaking the enterprise link: Demonstrating no meaningful connection to an organized group or illegal operation.
- Identifying procedural errors: Challenging improper warrants, unlawful searches, or mishandled evidence.
- Contesting credibility: Reviewing cooperating witness statements, financial records, and surveillance evidence for inconsistencies.
Our team applies a methodical approach, exploring every avenue to reduce exposure to prison, fines, and forfeiture.
Contact Our RICO Defense Attorneys
If you are facing RICO charges, taking action now is critical to protecting your future. Our team provides clear advice, a thorough review of the allegations, and a defense strategy built around your specific circumstances. Contact Fast Law today to begin building your defense.
Fast Law is based in Manhattan and proudly serves clients across New York, including Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Nassau County, Suffolk County, and New Jersey.